The Martha Raye papers span the years 1916-2000 (bulk 1936-1992) and encompass approximately 58 linear
feet. Raye's film career is primarily documented through clippings, with some correspondence, reviews,
and publicity material. There is script material for unproduced films from the 1970s and 1980s. There is
some material for "The Martha Raye Show" (1953-1956), including clippings, correspondence, and programs.
Raye's stage career on is documented by clippings and reviews, correspondence, publicity, and programs.
There is professional and personal correspondence. There are clippings, correspondence and programs
related to her USO activities and military artifacts, such as hats and medals. There are eight
scrapbooks, photographs, and photograph albums. The photograph series consists of motion picture
production, stage production, television production, biography, and subject photographs.

Background

Martha Raye was an American actress, singer, comedienne, and humanitarian. She was active in film from
1936 to 1979. Raye was married seven times and her husbands include makeup artist Bud Westmore, arranger
David Rose, tap dancer Nick Condos, dancer Edward T. Begley, and Mark Harris. Raye maintained a lifelong
relationship with the United Services Organization (USO), performing for soldiers from World War II
through Vietnam. She received the 1968 Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award.

Extent

50 linear feet of papers.
8 linear feet of photographs.

Restrictions

Property rights to the physical object belong to the Margaret Herrick Library. Researchers are
responsible for obtaining all necessary rights, licenses, or permissions from the appropriate companies
or individuals before quoting from or publishing materials obtained from the library.